Step Back in Time: Unearthing the Legacy of Old Boston Taverns and Tavern Clubs

Discover the rich history and vibrant culture of Boston's taverns and tavern clubs, where locals and travelers alike gathered to socialize and indulge in the city's notorious nightlife. Take a journey through time and explore the intriguing stories behind these iconic establishments that have left an indelible mark on Boston's past.

The Birth of Boston Taverns

In the early colonial days, taverns served as the social epicenter of Boston. These establishments were more than mere drinking establishments - they were places where people of all backgrounds gathered to exchange ideas, engage in political discourse, and build friendships.

One of the oldest taverns in Boston, The Bell in Hand Tavern, dates back to 1795. This historic establishment became a popular meeting spot for politicians, traders, and sailors. Its famous proprietor, Jimmy Wilson, was known for his charm and wit, attracting visitors from all walks of life.

Old Boston Taverns and Tavern Clubs

by Samuel Adams Drake(Kindle Edition)

4.7 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	1234 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
X-Ray for textbooks	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	176 pages
Screen Reader	:	Supported

FREE

Throughout the 19th century, as Boston transformed into a bustling industrial city, taverns multiplied. These establishments, such as The Green Dragon Tavern and The Warren Tavern, became integral parts of the city's social fabric, hosting secret meetings, spirited debates, and lively poetry readings.

Secret Societies and Tavern Clubs

Embedded within the tavern culture were secret societies and tavern clubs that played a significant role in shaping Boston's history. The most prominent among these groups were the Masonic Lodge, the Sons of Liberty, and the Boston Tea Party of 1773.

The Green Dragon Tavern, a legendary tavern club, gained fame for its association with the Sons of Liberty, a secret organization that played a pivotal role in protesting the Stamp Act and other political injustices. Many high-ranking revolutionaries, including Paul Revere and John Hancock, were regular patrons of The Green Dragon Tavern.

The noble traditions of the Freemasons were also deeply interwoven into Boston's tavern culture. Famous local lodges like The Boston Masonic Building and The Grand Lodge of Massachusetts became hallowed halls for members to gather, discuss esoteric knowledge, and promote philanthropic endeavors.

These secret societies and tavern clubs embodied the spirit of revolution, intellectual pursuits, and camaraderie, making an enduring impact on Boston's history.

Tales of Intrigue and Infamy>

No exploration of Boston's old taverns would be complete without delving into the fascinating tales of intrigue and infamy that unfolded within the walls of these establishments.

One such captivating story revolves around the historic Union Oyster House, which has been serving seafood delicacies since 1826. It is said that the secret compartments in the upper floors of the building were used by abolitionists to hide escaping slaves on the Underground Railroad, making the tavern a crucial player in the fight against slavery.

Another notorious establishment, The Warren Tavern, saw its fair share of scandal and crime. It is believed that two notable figures, Paul Revere and Samuel Adams, frequented this tavern to plan the infamous Boston Tea Party. The secret meetings that took place within its walls forever changed the course of American history.

Legacy and Preservation Efforts

Despite the passage of time and the ever-changing urban landscape, some of Boston's oldest taverns and tavern clubs have managed to survive, preserving their historical significance.

Historical landmarks like The Green Dragon Tavern have been renovated to maintain their original charm while adapting to modern times. Today, visitors can still experience the vibrant ambiance that once drew revolutionary thinkers together.

The Union Oyster House proudly displays its rich history, with antique furnishings and original fixtures that transport visitors back in time.

Tavern clubs like The Sons of Liberty have transcended their role as secret societies, transforming into modern-day social clubs that celebrate their historical legacy while embracing contemporary values.

The Spirit of Old Boston Taverns Lives On

As you wander the streets of Boston, take a moment to imagine the lively conversations and heated debates that once filled the air of these establishments. While some taverns have been lost to time, the spirit of old Boston taverns lives on in the heart of the city.

Whether you're a history enthusiast, a lover of unforgettable tales, or simply curious about the roots of Boston, exploring the legacy of old taverns and tavern clubs is an experience that will transport you to a bygone era.

Embrace the opportunity to step back in time, and uncover the secrets that lie within the walls of these cherished establishments. Venture into the heart of Boston's tavern culture and discover the vibrant legacy that still thrives today.

Old Boston Taverns and Tavern Clubs

by Samuel Adams Drake(Kindle Edition)

4.7 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	1234 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
X-Ray for textbooks	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	176 pages
Screen Reader	:	Supported

FREE

This illustrated volume was published in 1917.

From the Foreword:

The Inns of Old Boston have played such a part in its
history that an illustrated edition of Drake may not
be out of place at this late date. "Cole's Inn'' has been
definitely located, and the " Hancock Tavern " question also
settled.

I wish to thank the Bostonian Society for the privilege
of reprinting Mr. Watkin's account of the " Bakers' Arms "
and the " Golden Ball " and valuable assistance given by
Messrs. C. T. Bead, E. W. McGlenen, and W. A. Watkins ;
Henderson and Boss for the illustration of the "Crown
Coffee House," and the Walton Advertising Co. for the
"Boyal Exchange Tavern."

Other works consulted are Snow's History of Boston,
Memorial History of Boston, Stark's Antique Views,
Porter's Kambles in Old Boston, and Miss Thwing's very
valuable work in the Massachusetts Historical Society.

THE PUBLISHER.
.....................................................................................

Book excerpt:
It was in 1686 that John Dunton, a London bookseller
whom Pope lampoons in the "Dunciad," came over to
Boston to do a little business in the bookselling line.
The vicinity of the town-house was then crowded with
book-shops, all of which drove a thriving trade in print-
ing and selling sermons, almanacs, or fugitive essays of
a sort now quite unknown outside of a few eager col-
lectors. The time was a critical one in New England, as
she was feeling the tremor of the coming revolt which
sent King James into exile ; yet to read Dunton's ac-
count of men and things as he thought he saw them,
one would imagine him just dropped into Arcadia, rather
than breathing the threatening atmosphere of a country
that was tottering on the edge of revolution.

But it is to him, at any rate, that we are indebted
for a portrait of the typical landlord, — one whom we
feel at once we should like to have known, and, having
known, to cherish in our memory. With a flourish of
his goose-quill Dunton introduces us to George Monk,
landlord of the Anchor, who, somehow, reminds us of
Chaucer's Harry Bailly, and Ben Jonson's Goodstock.
And we more than suspect from what follows that
Dunton had tasted the "Anchor" Madeira, not only
once, but again.

George Monk, mine host of the Anchor, Dunton tells
us, was "a person so remarkable that, had I not been
acquainted with him, it would be a hard matter to
make any New England man believe that I had been
in Boston; for there was no one house in all the town
more noted, or where a man might meet with better
accommodation. Besides he was a brisk and jolly man,
whose conversation was coveted by all his guests as
the life and spirit of the company."